Son Of Westerner Impresses Skelton Over Fences

Crucial Role (6g Westerner - The Lyme Volunteer, by Zaffaran) looks an exciting prospect over fences after winning a Beginners Chase by nine lengths at Uttoxeter on Monday.

Twice a winner over hurdles for Henry Daly, Crucial Role was bought by Ryan Mahon for the Dan Skelton yard in May and now runs in the colours of D.W. Fox. Harry Skelton took the ride on Monday, riding his mount to track the leaders, before taking over three from home and drew clear before the last, winning unchallenged. Now McGinty, a Grade 3 second over hurdles, finished second, ahead of Grade 2 hurdle winner Chef Des Obeaux.

After the win, Dan Skelton commented, “I was impressed with Crucial Role. It was a very deep beginners’ chase. I’m very happy with him. We’ll give him three or four weeks and look again.”